‘Development responsible for pollution in Bhopal’

Main reasons for pollution in the state capital are construction of new roads, increase in number of vehicles, overall sewerage not being treated, density of habitation and emission more than prescribed standards by some industries. This was stated in a reply to a question asked by local MLA Vishwas Sarang.

Water resource minister Jayant Malaiyya told the house that government has taken appropriate steps to check pollution, which includes giving directions to BMC ( Bhopal Municipal Corporation), constant monitoring, issuing notices and advising industries spreading pollution.

Pollution board had filed two writs against BMC and also issued notice to BHEL to close one of its units. Vehicles emitting more than set norms are also fined. None of surface water resources, in and around Bhopal, is deemed fit for drinking. Water at Kerwa dam, near rest house was declared fit for drinking till 2009-10 but its condition deteriorated later and is now placed in B category, indicating fit only for bathing. Upper lake, near Kamla park area, is fit only for outdoor bathing purpose. This grading has been done by state pollution control board. Most of the places in lake where water supply centres are situated also fall in B category.

Giving details of pollution in Bhopal, Hamidia Road remains most polluted with recording air pollution (SPM) at 431.89 units (normal is 100). Sound pollution in all areas residential or commercial exceeded its limits.

Overall, 1,398 two-wheelers were checked for pollution and 56 were fined, while out of 213 three wheelers 21 were found emitting more than prescribed norms. 67 cars were checked and eight were found breaking pollution norms. In all, 1,763 vehicles were checked for pollution.